Job Description

Description

 LMT Defense provides top tier products to the US Military, law enforcement and government agencies, in addition to international customers across the globe. Products include precision engineered modular rifle systems, grenade launchers, suppressors, and components. As it was in the very beginning, LMT’s mission is to exceed customers’ expectations of quality and value, and we have been doing so for over 40 years. LMT Defense needs your help as we continue to grow into the future. If you are looking for a position that is fast paced, with competitive benefits (PTO, flex savings account, 401K match), flexible work schedules, and climate-controlled facility; LMT Defense is the perfect company for you. Below are the preferred skills, duties, and responsibilities you will perform as our Plating Cell Lead on 1st shift

Position Summary: 

The function of the Plating Cell Lead is to provide oversight of daily operations within the plating cell, ensure production goals, quality standards, and safety protocols are all met. This role also includes leading plating operators, monitoring plating processes, maintaining chemical baths, troubleshooting surface defects, enforcing compliance with OSHA and environmental regulations and coordinating with the engineering and quality team to optimize performance in the department and across the organization. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Required: High School/GED diploma  
• Strongly preferred: OSHA 30-hour or equivalent safety training. 
• Preferred: First-aid and CPR Certification 
• NADCAP special process auditor or equivalent experience. 
• Preferred: Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certification. 
• Environmental compliance certifications (e.g., RCRA, HAZWOPER). 
• Chemical Handling Certification. 

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES

• Must be able to sign and abide by Company’s employee manual and confidentiality agreement.
• Required to successfully complete a background check, job physical and drug screening 
• Excellent written and verbal communication, and interpersonal skills.  
• Strong problem-solving abilities and strategic mindset.  
• Familiarity and/or understanding of industry trends, technology, software, and best practices.  
• A strong passion for firearms, defense technologies, and the shooting sports community is a significant plus. 

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in electroplating, hard chrome plating, or surface treatment. 
• Strong knowledge of plating chemistry, equipment, and process control. 
• Proven experience and understanding of Lockout Tagout, chemical handling, PPE Requirements, and safe operation of relevant tools associated with electroplating.  
• Experience with ventilation/exhaust systems, air monitoring, and environmental compliance best practices.
• Understanding of chemical baths processes, metal deposition, and plating cycles.  
• Must be able to read and follow plating specs, SOPs, blueprints, and thickness requirements.  
• Proven experience with NADCAP, AS9100, and other aerospace quality systems. 
• Demonstrated experience with successful EHS program and regulatory compliance guidelines.  
• Excellent leadership and mentorship, communication, and problem-solving skills. 

JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES:
Operational Leadership:

• Direct daily operations of the electroplating facility, including scheduling, assigning, and monitoring work.
• Ensure adherence to aerospace and defense production standards, including NADCAP and AS9100 and customer specifications. 
• Drive process improvements to enhance throughput, reliability, and cost-efficiency. 

Technical Expertise:

• Serve as the technical authority on hard chrome plating, including bath chemistry, surface prep, and process control. 
• Develop and maintain plating procedures and work instructions aligned with aerospace specifications. 
• Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for plating defects or process deviations. 

EHS Compliance:

• Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local environmental, health, and safety regulations. 
• Prepare chemical batches and safely replace plating solutions.  
• Monitor and maintain plating solution filtration and overall bath quality.  
• Conduct and document regular audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations. 
• Ensure the correct use and mandate of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE).  

Quality Assurance:

• Collaborate with quality teams to ensure plating meets aerospace and defense specifications. 
• Regularly use and train team members on quality tools including but not limited to the use of micrometers, gauges, etc.. 
• Support internal and external audits, including NADCAP accreditation and customer inspections. 
• Maintain documentation and traceability in accordance with defense industry requirements. 

Team Development:

• Train and mentor technicians and operators in plating techniques, safety protocols, and quality standards. 
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement. 
• Any other duties assigned by Operations Manager. 

*LMT Defense is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer 

LMT Defense is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job related reasons regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. However, U.S. Citizenship, Permanent Residency or other appropriate status is required for certain positions, in accord with U.S. import & export regulations.

*Drug-Free Workplace

 In accordance with policies and applicable state laws, LMT Defense provides for a drug-free workplace. Therefore, all applicants seeking employment with LMT will be subject to drug testing as a condition of employment.